How to Apply Eyeliner: 10 Looks for Beginners and Pros

Whether you want to know how to create a basic straight line, perfect your cat-eye, or learn creative new tricks, consider this your complete guide to all things eyeliner

Intermediate Eyeliner Look: Winged Tip A winged tip eyeliner style is one of the most versatile eye makeup looks. You can choose to do a subtle wing or one to rival the late Amy Winehouse's. For this look, you need a good, smudge-proof cream or gel pot. Chang-Babaian recommends Shiseido The Makeup Accentuating Creme Eyeliner, $26. For a drugstore alternative, we love Maybelline New York Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner, $9.99. Chang-Babaian recommends using a pot over a liquid liner for this look, because liquid tends to have a more reflective finish.

How to apply: Apply the liner with an angled or pointed brush from the inner to the outer edges of your upper lashline. You want to make your line at a 45-degree angle, starting from your outer corner.

The key to achieving the right winged tip is to "really consider your eye shape," says Chang-Babaian, which means to follow the slants of your eyes.

Expert tip: Draw the winged tip with eyeshadow first, so that it's easier to erase if you mess up. Then go over the shadow with your cream liner. And to make sure that the wings are straight, hold a business card against the outer corner of your eye to use as a ruler.